A Tyneside man left brain damaged after he was chased into the path of a car by thugs has had his hopes for compensation dashed.

Steven Rutherford, 33, was left with horrific injuries after he was struck by the car as he enjoyed a night out with brother Stuart.

The former baker's claims for compensation were wrecked because no criminal charges were ever brought against the people he claimed attacked him and chased him into the road.

And an attempt to sue to the police over their investigation never reached court because of lack of evidence.

Now, more than eight years after the accident, Mr Rutherford has finally accepted defeat. He said: "That night changed my life forever and it has effectively ruined all my chances of success. At first I wanted compensation so that I could get my life back on track and then I just wanted justice from the police. I believe charges should have been made against the people who chased me out into the road.The last eight years have been like banging my head against a brick wall and the whole situation just leaves me so angry."

Last week Mr Rutherford, of Shield Street, Shieldfield, Newcastle, received final word from his solicitor that there were no other legal options open to him.

After the smash Mr Rutherford was put on a life support machine with a broken neck, leg and serious head injuries after the attack and car smash in Millars Road, Byker, Newcastle.

A frame was inserted into his skull to keep it stable and a brace was bolted through his leg. He spent over three months in rehabilitation and can now no longer work as a baker.

Police believe Steven's injuries were the result of an accident and the driver of the car which collided with him said he saw nobody chasing the two brothers.

Steven's brother witnessed the attack but could not give independent evidence.